There is no place like Southern California, where sun-swept beaches and inland coastal forests abound. However, the area is also known for its scorching temperatures—especially in the late summer months. These campgrounds will keep you cool as you enjoy the outdoors: with swimming options ranging from Sierra lakes and hot springs to Malibu beaches and swimming holes, there’s an aquatic adventure out there for everyone.

Summer fun in the sun wouldn’t be complete without man’s best friend! Each of these beautiful, dog-friendly campsites have beach access, so you and your pup can enjoy all that California beaches have to offer.

If you’re camping in Badlands National Park, get ready for an adventure through otherworldly landscapes. The park itself houses two campgrounds that operate on a first-come, first-served basis—so plan on an early arrival during the busy summer months—or head to one of the excellent options just beyond the park.

Award-winning author and outdoorsman Tom Stienstra is the local authority when it comes to California camping. These are the 10 most-scenic campsites that also include swimming options in Northern California.

Outdoorsman Tom Stienstra has identified dozens of the most-rarely visited secluded campsites in California. Here are 10 of the best places to get away from it all in both Northern and Southern California.

The Tucson Mountain Park spans 20,000 acres of wild desert and features one of the largest saguaro forests in the world. Learn about the history of the preserve and find helpful information on campgrounds and day-use amenities.

In Laura’s last article, she introduced readers to Phil Bryant, a technical shift lead for a major electric utility, who recently experienced an eye-opening RV adventure with his family. Continuing in this segment, is Laura’s interview of Phil recalling his family’s memorable three-week journey.

Adventure Awaits!

Moon Guides Author Spotlight

Jason Frye (Moon Great Smoky Mountain National Park)

Raised deep in the mountains of West Virginia, Jason Frye first fell in love with North Carolina as a kid during family vacations to the Outer Banks. In 2002, he swapped his mountains for sand dunes and his river for an ocean when he moved to Wilmington to pursue a master of fine arts in creative writing. There, his love for North Carolina deepened into a longing to stay, settle, explore, and be a part of the people, culture, and history of the state.

Along with his wife, Lauren, Jason has kayaked the marshes and waterways near his home; hang glided off the Outer Banks; explored the cityscapes of Charlotte, Raleigh, and Winston-Salem; and wandered the woods and wilds around Asheville.

A member of the Society of American Travel Writers, Jason has contributed stories to VisitNC.com, AAA’s Go Magazine, Our State magazine, Southern Living, Salt, the Charlotte Observer and Raleigh News & Observer, and acts as a culinary critic for the Wilmington StarNews.